Needs of carers participating in support groups and caring for a person with dementia: A focused ethnographic study

Jette Lauritzen*, Erik E Sørensen, Preben U Pedersen, Merete B Bjerrum

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

Abstract

AIMS: The aim is to explore and understand how support group participation meets carers' perceived needs for information and social and emotional support when caring for a person with dementia who lives at home.

DESIGN: Focused ethnographic design.

METHODS: Participant observations and semi-structured interviews with 25 carers were conducted. An inductive content analysis of the data was performed.

FINDINGS: Two themes were identified: "Strengthening the sense of self" and "Managing uncertain benefits."

CONCLUSION: Carers' level of information about dementia was partly met, thereby strengthening their sense of self and joy. Maintaining shared decision-making in financial matters was viewed as an expression of respect and reciprocity. Getting acquainted with peers and dementia coordinators was viewed as emotional and social support but was also used strategically to gain easier access to health care services. By fulfilling their needs, support group meetings became meaningful, which motivated carers to continue providing care.

Original languageEnglish
JournalDementia
Volume21
Issue number4
Pages (from-to)1219-1232
Number of pages14
ISSN1471-3012
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2022

Keywords

  • caregiver support
  • dementia
  • focused ethnography
  • needs
  • nurses
  • qualitative content analysis
  • support group

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